Sjögren's Syndrome

Sjögren's syndrome is a disease in which the body's defense system (immune system) attacks healthy tissues causing dryness of the mouth, eyes and other membranes of the body that secrete mucous. It is often found along with rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and lupus.

Symptoms

Sjögren's syndrome may affect only the eyes or only the mouth or it may be more general. One out of three people who have Sjögren's syndrome also have arthritis. A person may have signs of a rheumatic disease, but not have the dry eyes or mouth associated with some forms of Sjögren's.

The disease damages the glands that supply saliva to the mouth and tears to the eyes. This causes the cornea of the eye and the tissues around the eye to dry out. The eyes may feel scratchy or irritated. In advanced cases, the cornea may be damaged, impairing vision.

Persons with Sjögren's syndrome have little or no saliva. This causes a dry mouth and lips. It also makes chewing and swallowing difficult and promotes tooth decay. The disease may also affect a person's ability to taste or smell food.

Other parts of the body where there are mucous membranes also begin to dry out. This includes the nose, throat, lungs, vulva and vagina. Drying in the lungs can result in lung infections or pneumonia. There may be a loss of hair on the body.